Thousands of motorhome and campervan enthusiasts from around Australia are converging on Port Stephens this week (October 6-12) for the Campervan Motorhome Club of Australia (CMCA)’s annual rally, a major event expected to generate more than $2.5 million for the local economy.

More than 1000 motorhomes and campervans have gathered at the Tomaree Sports Complex near Nelson Bay in Port Stephens, with organisers reporting this year’s rally is the first in the 29-year-history of the event to completely book out.

Supported by Port Stephens Council, Destination Port Stephens and local tourism and business operators, the rally will feature daily seminars and talks for travellers who love life on the road. Craft sessions, cooking demonstrations, health discussions, pet shows, special dinners, food courts and live music shows will be held at the expo, with entertainers including Aussie music legend, Lucky Starr, who recorded the 1962 hit song, ‘I’ve Been Everywhere’, still popular today, especially with motorhome enthusiasts.

* A public open day from 9.00am-3.30pm on Saturday, October 11 (entry by gold coin donation) will allow visitors to browse market and food stalls and learn about life on the move.

While in Port Stephens, the many motorhome and campervan owners are expected to enjoy local attractions and tours and visit local shops, supermarkets, restaurants and cafes, providing a boon for local businesses.

Kim Latham from Port Stephens Council said she welcomed the rally to the area. “I am sure the Port Stephens community joins me in welcoming the CMCA to our beautiful region and I hope all visitors are able to enjoy our many attractions including our blue, dolphin-filled waters, the biggest sand dunes in the southern hemisphere, our adventure activities, our great seafood and many restaurants, our local produce and our pristine beaches,” Ms Latham said. “I wish the rally every success and we look forward to seeing members back in Port Stephens again in the near future.”